Californian Green Rice

Californian Green Rice Recipe - Delicious Vegetarian Delight

Region / culture: California | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Californian Green Rice is a flavorful and vibrant dish that is perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines the fresh flavors of tomatillos, cilantro, and jalapeño peppers to create a delicious and unique rice dish that is sure to impress your family and friends.

History

This recipe is inspired by traditional Mexican cuisine, where tomatillos are commonly used in sauces and salsas. The addition of cilantro and jalapeño peppers adds a fresh and spicy kick to the dish, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy bold flavors.

Ingredients

6 large tomatillos (approximately 0.75 lb or 340 g)
2 tbsp water
0.33 cup minced fresh cilantro
4 tsp minced seeded jalapeño peppers
0.5 tsp salt
1 clove garlic, minced
1.25 cups uncooked long grain rice

How to prepare

Remove the husks and stems from the tomatillos.
In a medium saucepan, boil the tomatillos for 4 minutes or until they become soft; then drain them.
Put the tomatillos and 2 tsp of water in a blender and blend until smooth.
Transfer the tomatillo mixture into a 4 cup glass measuring cup, and add enough water to make it 2.5 cups in total.
In a saucepan, combine the tomatillo mixture, cilantro, jalapeño, salt, and garlic, and bring it to a boil.
Add the rice, cover the mixture, reduce the heat, and let it simmer for 20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.
Remove from heat and fluff the rice with a fork.

Variations

Add diced tomatoes or bell peppers for extra color and flavor.
Stir in cooked black beans or corn for added protein and texture.
Top with crumbled queso fresco or avocado slices for a creamy finish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to remove the husks and stems from the tomatillos before boiling them.

- Blending the tomatillos with water creates a smooth and creamy texture for the sauce.

- Adjust the amount of jalapeño peppers to suit your spice preference.

- Fluffing the rice with a fork after cooking helps to separate the grains and create a light and fluffy texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Californian Green Rice as a side dish with grilled chicken, fish, or tofu. It also pairs well with black beans, avocado, and a squeeze of lime juice.

Cooking Techniques

Boiling the tomatillos helps to soften them and release their natural juices.

- Simmering the rice in the tomatillo sauce allows the flavors to meld together and infuse the rice with a vibrant green color.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you can't find fresh tomatillos, you can use canned tomatillos instead.

- Substitute serrano peppers for jalapeño peppers for a spicier kick.

- Use brown rice or quinoa for a healthier alternative to white rice.

Make Ahead Tips

Californian Green Rice can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the rice with a sprig of fresh cilantro or a slice of lime for a pop of color. Serve in a colorful bowl or on a decorative platter for an eye-catching presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Californian Green Rice with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving with a refreshing cucumber mint cooler.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Californian Green Rice contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Californian Green Rice contains approximately 35 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

This dish is low in fat, with only 1 gram of fat per serving.

Proteins

Californian Green Rice provides 4 grams of protein per serving.

Vitamins and minerals

This recipe is rich in vitamin C, thanks to the tomatillos and cilantro. It also contains iron, potassium, and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe is gluten-free and dairy-free, making it suitable for those with food allergies or sensitivities.

Summary

Californian Green Rice is a nutritious and flavorful dish that is low in fat and calories. It provides a good source of carbohydrates, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Californian Green Rice is a delicious and nutritious dish that is easy to make and full of fresh flavors. Whether you serve it as a side dish or a main course, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the feeling of curiosity that overcame me when I found this recipe for Californian Green Rice. It was a warm summer day, and I was rummaging through an old box of recipe cards that had been passed down to me from my own grandmother. As I sifted through the faded and stained cards, I came across one that caught my eye. It was titled "Californian Green Rice" and the ingredients listed were unlike anything I had ever seen before.

Intrigued, I set out to learn more about this mysterious dish. I asked around among my friends and neighbors, but no one seemed to have heard of it. Determined to unlock the secrets of this recipe, I turned to the internet for answers. After hours of searching and scouring various food blogs and websites, I finally came across a forum where someone mentioned Californian Green Rice in passing.

I reached out to the person who had mentioned the dish and they were gracious enough to share their own version of the recipe with me. As I read through the ingredients and instructions, I could hardly contain my excitement. The dish was a vibrant green color, thanks to the combination of fresh herbs and vegetables that were used in the recipe. It was said to be light and refreshing, perfect for a summer day.

Eager to try my hand at making Californian Green Rice, I gathered all the necessary ingredients and set to work in the kitchen. I chopped up an assortment of herbs and vegetables, including cilantro, green onions, and spinach. I sautéed them in a bit of olive oil until they were fragrant and tender, then added in some cooked rice and a splash of chicken broth.

As the rice cooked, a delicious aroma filled my kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation. I couldn't wait to taste the finished dish and see if it lived up to the hype. Finally, after what felt like an eternity, the rice was done.

I scooped a generous portion onto a plate and took a bite. The flavors exploded in my mouth, a harmonious blend of herbs, vegetables, and savory rice. It was light and fresh, just as I had imagined it would be. I knew right then and there that this recipe would become a staple in my cooking repertoire.

Over the years, I have made Californian Green Rice countless times, each batch slightly different from the last as I experimented with new ingredients and techniques. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, who have all raved about it and asked for seconds. It has become a signature dish of mine, one that always brings a smile to the faces of those who taste it.

As I reflect on how I learned to make this delicious dish, I am reminded of the joy and satisfaction that cooking brings me. It is a creative outlet, a way to connect with others, and a means of preserving cherished memories and traditions. And so, with a full heart and a satisfied stomach, I look forward to many more years of making and sharing my beloved Californian Green Rice recipe.